Patrick Schaefer

Patrick Scott Schaefer, 53, left this world on March 1, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. He was born on September 23, 1971 in Kimberly, Wisconsin to Joseph (Jack) and Vivian (Van Lanen) Schaefer.

As a graduate of Kimberly High School class of 1990, Pat’s love of sports was evident as he played both baseball and basketball. He continued to be an avid sports enthusiast throughout his life. His love of the Packers, Brewers and Bucks was known very LOUDLY on game days and throughout the constant conversation and endless trips to Sporting Events with the Family!

During his career, Pat dedicated himself to Ducommun in Appleton, where he was not just a colleague and supervisor but a friend to many. His infectious laughter and outgoing personality made him a joy to be around. Pat nurtured all his relationships and had an extraordinary ability to bring people together.

Pat married the love of his life, Jane Gloudemans, after a fortuitous encounter at a local McDonald’s where they both worked. Together, over 35 years, they created a beautiful family, raising three remarkable children who were the pride of Pat’s heart. He embraced fatherhood with unwavering dedication, celebrating every triumph, attending and coaching sporting events and being an ever present role model that all three of his children admired dearly. He loved spending time with their dogs, Atlas and Taffy. With Taffy (Mitzy) he finally found his true fur buddy! Pat was loved by all and his fun spirit and outgoing nature made him an irreplaceable presence in the hearts of all. 

Pat found immense joy in tropical vacations, he especially loved trips with Jane - to Jamaica, Hawaii, Mexico, and the Virgin Islands. Most recently the entire family enjoyed a fun filled family vacation to Aruba. It was through these experiences that he created beautiful memories and lived life to the fullest. He made connections with people all over the world in his travels, often finding some connection to his home in the Fox Valley. Pat began his love of the outdoors as a young child at his parent’s cottage in Townsend. He continued this love throughout his life with many memorable trips to the Sand Trap bar in Lakewood during his hunting and ice fishing trips with his brother-in-law Rick. He also enjoyed frequenting casinos with Jane and his family and most often could be found playing a spirited game of Sheepshead with his friends and family – or anyone that would play! Anyone that knew Pat, also knew his love of Kenny Rodgers which is evident in the fact that his wife and children can recite most of his music and will admit that they love it. He was a cherished member of the community and his passion for life was evident in everything he did.

Pat is survived by his loving wife Jane; children Samantha, Brandon and Ryan Schaefer; siblings Al (Sue) Schaefer, Amy (Steve) Wieckert, Barb Schaefer, Jane Schaefer, Paula (Jon) Sanders; mother-in-law Janet Weiss, sister-in-law Jill (Rick) Meixl, brother-in-law Jeff (Leah) Gloudemans; as well as many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Joe Schaefer and father-in-law John Gloudemans.

A visitation to honor Pat will be held on March 18, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N Superior St. in Appleton with a funeral service at 12:00 PM. May his memory be a guiding light and a reminder to embrace adventure, laughter, and the beauty of family and friendships. 

Pat’s family would like to thank Fox Cities Metro, Little Chute Fire Department and Gold Cross Ambulance Service. Our hearts are broken as a heart attack took Pat from us way too soon.